The Mazda 3 II Hatchback, specifically the 2.0i variant with an automatic transmission, was produced between 2009 and 2011 as part of the BL generation. This model represented Mazda’s continued effort to blend sporty handling with everyday practicality in the compact segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the second-generation Mazda 3 lineup, it aimed to provide a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable and refined driving experience without sacrificing Mazda’s signature “Zoom-Zoom” character. The BL generation Mazda 3 was a significant update over its predecessor, featuring a more sophisticated interior, improved ride quality, and enhanced safety features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | 3 |
| Generation | II Hatchback (BL) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i (150 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 183 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp, 118.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm, 147.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75 Hp/l |
| Torque | 187 Nm @ 4000 rpm (137.92 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LF5H, LF5W |
| Engine displacement | 1999 cm3 (121.99 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.1 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1265 kg (2788.85 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1835 kg (4045.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 340 l (12.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1360 l (48.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Length | 4460 mm (175.59 in.) |
| Width | 1755 mm (69.09 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2002 mm (78.82 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2640 mm (103.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2.0i Automatic Mazda 3 is the LF5H or LF5W engine, a 1999cc inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a naturally aspirated configuration, relying on atmospheric pressure for intake rather than forced induction. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to efficient cylinder filling and improved performance. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine produces 150 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 187 Nm (137.92 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s 10:1 compression ratio strikes a balance between power output and fuel efficiency. Paired with the engine is a five-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide smooth and convenient gear changes. This transmission was chosen to appeal to drivers prioritizing comfort and ease of use over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i Automatic Mazda 3 offered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. While not as sporty as the manual transmission or higher-output versions, the automatic provided smooth acceleration and effortless cruising. The five-speed automatic transmission was tuned for fuel economy and comfort, with gear ratios optimized for everyday driving conditions. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 10.1 seconds, and the car reached a top speed of 205 km/h (127.38 mph). Compared to the manual transmission version, the automatic offered slightly slower acceleration due to the inherent power loss in the torque converter. However, the automatic’s ease of use made it a popular choice for urban commuting and long-distance travel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0i Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with auxiliary input, and alloy wheels. Safety features included ABS, front and side airbags, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Optional extras included a sunroof, leather upholstery, a premium sound system, and navigation system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a focus on durability and comfort. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, with clearly labeled controls and a straightforward instrument cluster.
Chassis & Braking
The Mazda 3 II Hatchback utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This suspension setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The 2.0i Automatic model was equipped with ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear disc brakes, providing adequate stopping power for everyday driving. The electric power steering system offered light and responsive steering feel, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0i Automatic Mazda 3 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and user-friendly features. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission dulled the car’s sporty character compared to the manual version. Fuel economy was considered average for its class, with combined fuel consumption of 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg). Compared to the 2.3-liter engine option, the 2.0i offered better fuel economy but less overall power. The 1.6-liter engine option was more fuel-efficient but lacked the performance of the 2.0i.
Legacy
The LF5H/LF5W engine and the five-speed automatic transmission pairing in the Mazda 3 II Hatchback have proven to be relatively reliable over the long term. While some owners have reported minor issues with the automatic transmission, such as occasional harsh shifting, these problems are generally not widespread. The engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs. Today, the 2.0i Automatic Mazda 3 remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering a good balance of affordability, practicality, and reliability. Its reputation for being a well-rounded and dependable compact car continues to attract buyers seeking a comfortable and efficient daily driver.
